Is Beer (regular) Gluten Free?

Contains Gluten

Regular beer contains gluten from barley or wheat.

Regular beer is brewed from barley (or sometimes wheat), water, hops, and yeast. Barley is a major gluten grain. Most regular beers contain gluten.

Coeliac Disease

Avoid regular beer. Buy certified gluten free beer.

Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS)

Same as coeliac guidance. Regular beer must be avoided.

Why Does Beer (regular) Contain Gluten?

Barley is one of the main gluten grains.

Australia vs United States

Australia (FSANZ)

FSANZ requires labelling. Most Australian beers are not GF.

United States (FDA)

FDA requires labelling. Most US beers are not GF.

Nutrition Information

Nutrition Facts

Per 100 mL · Typical serve: 100 mL

Energy180 kJ / 43 kcal

Protein0.5g

Fat, total0.0g

Saturated fat0.0g

Carbohydrate3.6g

Sugars0.0g

Dietary fibre0.0g

Sodium4mg

Source: USDA FDC. Values are for the generic food in its standard form. Branded products may vary. Always check the product label for the most accurate nutrition information.

Brand Comparison

Not all brands are created equal. Here is how popular beer (regular) brands stack up for gluten content.

Brand	Region	Gluten Free?	Certification	Notes
Carlton Draught	AU	No	None	Contains barley and gluten
VB	AU	No	None	Standard lager contains gluten
Tooheys New	AU	No	None	Contains barley malt
James Squire	AU	No	None	Craft brewer with regular gluten beers
Bud Light	US	No	None	Standard beer with barley
Corona	both	No	None	Lager contains gluten
Heineken	both	No	None	Contains barley

What to Watch For

Barley, wheat in some beers.

Gluten Free Alternatives

If you need a gluten free substitute, consider: Gluten free beer (certified), wine, cider, gluten free spirits.

Medical disclaimer: This is general information about gluten content, not medical advice. If you have coeliac disease, non-coeliac gluten sensitivity, or a wheat allergy, always consult your doctor or accredited practising dietitian before making dietary changes. Product formulations change. Always read the label.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Beer (regular) gluten free?

Regular beer is brewed from barley (or sometimes wheat), water, hops, and yeast. Barley is a major gluten grain. Most regular beers contain gluten.

Can coeliacs eat beer (regular)?

Avoid regular beer. Buy certified gluten free beer.

Related Foods in Alcohol

Beer (gluten free) Beer (gluten removed) Lager Ale Stout Wheat beer Cider Wine (red)

More from RefDat

Explore more reference data at refdat.com.

How We Verify This

Every food in our database is reviewed against current FSANZ and FDA gluten-free standards. Brand data is verified against manufacturer labelling. We cross-reference with Coeliac Australia ingredient lists and the USDA FoodData Central database. When Australian and US standards differ, we apply the stricter standard.

Sources

FSANZ labelling, Coeliac Australia

Last reviewed: May 2026